Title : Implementation of Suggestions for the Direct Combination of Satellite and Gravimetric Data,

Corporate Author : OHIO STATE UNIV COLUMBUS DEPT OF GEODETIC SCIENCE

Personal Author(s) : Rapp,Richard H.

Report Date : DEC 1971

Pagination or Media Count : 16

Abstract : A modification of an existing orbit determination-analysis program where potential coefficients are solved for is discussed. The modifications include those dealing with the variational equations and the adjustment procedure that will allow mean anomalies to replace the potential coefficients as descriptions of the gravitational field of the earth. It is suggested that 184-15 degree equal area blocks be used as the unknown gravitational parameters. The terrestrial estimates of these blocks must be made from smaller subdivision blocks and then referenced to anomalies implied by a reference set of potential coefficients that are used for the reference orbit computation. It is suggested that the iteration of the orbital solution be carried out using a fixed set of coefficients. After the iteration has converged one last run should be made using the program modified to incorporate mean anomalies as unknowns. (Author)